Very well explained…..I am 84 years old and still quilting, but I am used to quilting on my sewing machine. This is new to me. I have the Pro-Stitcher, so I am learning.
Such a joy to watch. You get right to what you are teaching without a whole bunch of chatter about other things. I just found out we have a longarm machine at our senior center and can't wait to start using it. I just wanted to get a head start before I do a queen size crumb quilt I just finished. Thanks so much!
Thank you so much Leah! This was the most informative video on how to load a quilt on a long arm. I really appreciate how well you explained everything. This a daunting task for those of us who are just learning how to do this. I now understand how to do it correctly. Thanks again.
My methods have changed over the years and I now load a little differently. You can find my updated tutorial here - leahday.com/blogs/machinequilting/continuum-loading
I was just gifted a Husqvarna quilt Master sewing machine and an inspira quilt frame. I cannot even believe how lucky I am! I've been watching your videos since your Janome hd1000 days. Now I can follow along with the quilt frame videos. So excited!
Wow - I'm impressed. I have an "old" longarm machine and have been wanting to get started on experimenting with the longarm quilting process but have never really understood how to load the quilt onto the machine. Several people have shown me on my actual machine but it still didn't "register" with me. Your video is wonderful! I appreciate how real you are and how you explain every little detail. I am finally confident that I can do this and am most anxious to get started! Thank you very much!!!
I watch your video every time I load my Longarm. I haven’t quilted for two years now and just do not remember the proper way. I really enjoy all your videos. You have taught me a lot. Thanks. Tina Spano, New Jersey ( a few miles outside of Atlantic City
Took my first quilt to the long arm artist 3/28/24. I entered a new ‘world’. Thank you for the excellent tutorial and I’m a Day too! Fun to find another Day. I live in Washington state so my Days came from Missouri/Alabama in 1888. 🦅🇺🇸🦅
Wonderful! My husbands family were military so with all the moving unfortunately we don’t know where our Days came from. I’m planning to play with ancestry.com soon to see what I can learn! Nice to meet another Day!
Thankyou Leah. My Hubby brought me a quilting frame and we set it up Yesterday. Very first time using it, so I don't have a clue what I'm doing. Your directions are clear and easy to follow, found you yesterday so can't wait to delve into your channel! Thanks. 🇦🇺
I have had my Q15R on continuum now for 6 months and avoided it like the plague because of Loading this thing never went well. Until I saw this video!! Thanks so much for your tutorial and your sense of humor :)
Leah Day has the most informative videos; excellent instructor! This is my first time loading a quilt on a frame and I could not be more pleased that I found your videos!!! Blessings!
You are a wonderful instructor. You teach methods, ideas and tips that none other instructor has mentioned or hadn't thought of. Thanks for sharing. I have been following you for a very, very long time and have learned much from you.
Wonderful Kati! We just recently cashed in our change jar and it was shocking how much $$$ was inside. So yep, that can definitely work so long as you're saving lots of quarters along with the pennies!
Kati- You don’t need to save to buy new. People upgrade or move all the time and sell perfectly fine used machines. I got my Grace frame and machine for $1,200 (great Bargain!) from someone moving across the country who did not want to move it with her. Just be patient and know that soon you will find a seller at a great price and jump on it. Guilds are the best places to hear about a sale. Good luck!
My son and I watched this together. This was so fun! James did a GREAT job! My son, Elliot loved seeing someone his age jump on the machine too! Hi from Elliot!
This is a great information video. We moved our long arm machine yesterday. I thought I made photos and stickers for everything, but I totally forgot about the leaders. Thanks to this video, I can correct and also improve what we have going on our long arm. Thank you Leah.
I was given a quilting frame without the leaders so watched your video about putting them on and now this one to show me how to load the quilt. Thank you so much. I have watched several and I like yours the best. You make it seem easier with out a lot of complications.
You are very welcome! My methods for loading have changed a bit as I've gained more experience. You can find an updated tutorial here - leahday.com/blogs/machinequilting/continuum-loading
I just began considering the purchase of a longarm quilter when I ran across your videos! your videos make it seem so doable for me at 71 yrs of age. I will try to contact you about a purchase !
I was watching your videos and listened to your suggestion to finance the midarm machine. I called Sewingmachinesplus.com and purchased a midarm sit down machine. I was surprised at the space it took up and shocked when the manufacturer (HandiQuilter) brochure showed a six foot frame that took up basically the same amount of space and there was also a 16” longarm machine to use with the frame. Luckily, Sewingmachinesplus had a 90 day trial so I was able to send the sit down machine back (had to keep the table) and I now have a long arm machine like yours. I was really surprised when you reported a month after I switched to the long arm that you had already bought a longarm too. It would probably have saved me time and money.
I'm glad you were able to send it back! They do take up a lot of room and sometimes that's hard to visualize until you get it in your space. We do have a new 4 1/2 foot hoop frame which takes up a lot less space, but it works differently for loading your quilt. The key is just trying out things until you find what works best for you!
Leah I just love all of your videos. I have learned so much. What I love is how you show us how to do it but also the whys. Thank you so much. Gg from Colorado
I have recently bought a long arm with a frame that has 4 rails...I am hoping to find a video of you with this type of frame...you have taught me lots over the years thank you.
This has been great, I have been thinking of buying an 8 foot frame for my simply 16 as I am getting frustrated with the little foot frame which still requires quilts to be basted, I love my longarm because as you say you can get the quilts done a-lot quicker. Thanks for the video.
I think that's a good move Laurelle. I've been looking at the hoop style frames and while I'm curious, and they certainly are smaller and cheaper than other frames, I think the best method is on a traditional frame like this with 2-3 bars to roll the quilt up this way so there's no basting required.
You have made learning the quilting process pleasurable. Thank you. I would love to see more longarm videos. I purchased a longarm but have received it yet.
Thank you so much for this video. I have just bought a grace frame and watching videos to set up. Yours has been the most helpful. I am curious about the plates that you can use as templates.
Thank you very much...you nice voice , details , tips is Great! I have a Pfaff longarm at home have not touched it in a years...but floating the batting and not using the side clips I believe will help. Bless you!
I made the the blue star quilt that you have on the back wall 2 yrs ago my UFO.....lol and am finally putting the binding on it. I'm wanting to know the name of the quilt for my quilt label. My was done in Patriotic fabric for a raffle for our local Community Club. Thank you in advance for your help and all you do to make quilting easier.
Helpful information. I have a quilt frame and I think it is the same one you have. I have a Bernita 830 to use with it but I am scared to use it. Pathetic I know. Your video helped me get some courage :)
Hi Leah.I love your very detailed videos.Can you explain a little about how the machine is locked into place to stitch a straight line.I didn’t realize the machine could do that.Thank you.
I also have been looking for help on loading my quilt onto the Q-zone hoop frame. The straps get in the way of moving my 15R across the frame. I must not be losing the fabric correctly. Any suggestions?
Hi Leah, I am looking into purchasing a Grace Q'nique15R and I thought that I would ask your expertise on the Q'nique longarm, what are your pros and cons on your machine? Do you ever have any problems with thread tension? I sure would appreciate any input that you might have on this. I am so confused on this, Leah you are my mentor when it comes to quilting videos and the how to knowledge you give to all us quilters. Much appreciative, Susan
Great questions Susan! Three pros and things I love about the machine - it's not nearly as expensive as other machine / frame combos, it's very sturdy, and the machine has two sets of feet now that really expand what you can do with it. And three cons - it is only 15 inches which can seem pretty small on a big quilt. The light is a big bright and I've covered it a bit so it isn't quite so glaring (kind of the opposite problem you usually have). One tiny little issue I have is the thread popping out of one guide, but that might be a weird nuance of my machine and now that I'm aware of it, I'm in the habit of checking it. These are little things and this is why I quilt on this machine and share videos on it - I'm SUPER happy with it! I had another longarm and sold it because I wasn't comfortable shooting videos on it that would sell that machine. I know tension is a concern for most quilters looking to switch to a longarm and it's certainly an adjustment, but I've never struggled with it. Here's a video on how I do a tension test: leahday.com/blogs/machinequilting/troubleshoot-tension-on-a-longarm
@@LeahDay Thank you Leah for your input on the Grace Q'nique. I may go ahead and purchase mine this week-end. I am certain as I too cannot really afford the more expensive Quilting machine. this will be my first Longarm. Have a great week-end. I enjoy watching your videos and all your projects and inspiration.
Also I noticed you have a little basket on your longarm....can you show up close. I am new to my longarm and I have the same one and I love idea of you having your notions on your qnique . More tutorials on this machine would be awesome . Thank you very much.
Hi Leah first thank you for all the helpful videos I was wondering if you could do a video about cleaning and oiling the Qnique 15 or the 14 + that you have if you already have something similar could you point me in the right direction thank you again and have a wonderful new year weekend
Hey- Thank you for this tutorial, very well paced and easy to follow. After reading through the comments I see you do not baste the sides. Is that correct? You use 15 SPI for your basting. Do you find that to keep the quilt squared better? How do you deal with fullness on the borders? Last question- do you find that your quilt can develop a frown at the bottom from not basting the sides? Thanks so much:)
Nope, I don't tend to baste the sides, though I do use side clamps more often now. I like for the fabric to be able to escape just in case my fluffy batting starts to form pleats.
Hi Leah, I got my new Grace Qnique15R and 8 ft frame in your demo. I learned to float and or to baste the entire 3 layers of the quilt to the two rollers. I was wondering why don't you use the quilt top rail? Did you have any trouble advancing the quilt with it attached? This frame locks that lower roller in so how do you see if the batting and backing has advanced smoothly? I love the fact that the frame can be made taller as I am quite tall. The machine is still in the box. Hopefully tomorrow I can get it set up and start to quilt. I love how the package has everything I need to set up and start to sew. Thank you for offering such a sweet deal. My Friend Sue C also ordered the same system this week from you after she saw my post on my fb page.
Hi Denise! I haven't invested in the upper rail because with the 15 inch longarm, this will actually limit the amount of space you have to quilt in. The uppermost rail will hit the back boxy thing (right behind the monitor) and reduce the amount of space you have to quilt in. Thank you so much for sharing about your frame! I look forward to helping you and Sue with your new machines!
Hi Leah,Thanks for the reply. I guess I explained it wrong. I was meaning the 3rd rail below the backing rail in the front of the frame. The directions explain to attach your quilt top to it and roll it up. then after you add your batting to pick up the quilt top edge & bring it up to the stitched line on the batting and back. I tried this and it all bunched up, so I am floating the top for now. Also I am not sure if I put the leaders on correctly. Should they hang behind the rails or hang in front of the rails? Possible if I applied the leaders wrong that could have caused the top and batting to get bunched up? I love the regulated stitch programs. I only had constant speed on the LA I was borrowing. The rulers are a fun addition to my collection. The bobbin winder is super cool. I'm really a happy camper! Sue's already set up and practicing today! Thanks Leah
Nellie Flanders HandiQuilter sells a Simply Sixteen midarm (16” throat) with several frame options. I have a Little Foot Frame, which is like a six foot wide embroidery hoop. I’ve quilted a king size quilt on it using large tool holder magnets to keep the quilt in place while quilting. This is the video I was thinking of: ruclips.net/video/vhcQbwIxalE/видео.html
Cindy Griffis I have a Husqvarna free motion sit down quilting set up and do not like it, the machine is ok though. Was wondering if this machine would work with the frame Leah is using, think she said 8 ft
Nellie Flanders I’m not sure about that. The HandiQuilter sit down machine (Sweet Sixteen) has the capability of being turned into a longarm. The reason I originally bought it was because I wanted to switch to a longarm someday (I thought they were prohibitably expensive and large. (The one I’d seen at the dealer where I bought my domestic machine was $35,000. My Sewingmachinesplus salesperson said HandiQuilter was the only maker that had the option to change. Since I bought my machine I have seen setups where even domestic machines are put on a carriage with handlebars so they can be moved around on a table. I’d check RUclips and google to see if that would work for you. The difference between a sit down and longarm is the way the machine moves over the fabric/table. My machine communicates electronically with the carriage to “track” the movements. This is a link to a video about a carrier for a regular machine on a large frame: ruclips.net/video/vhcQbwIxalE/видео.html
Yep, this is set up as an 8 foot frame, and you can add a 2 foot addition if you get more space later. We also have a new 4 1/2 foot wide Q-Zone frame which works differently, but it takes up a lot less space.
Didn't know about the quilt clips and have been pinning the top to the 3rd bottom most leader. Will definitely get some. I have the same Qnique machine and long arm frame as you but my biggest issue has been tension problems with the machine. Have you had this issue? I've even replaced the manual tension assembly. Thoughts.
Tension on a longarm is very different from tension on a home machine. Little things can throw the machine off and the most important tip is to check your stitch quality OFTEN. So when you change bobbins, check, when you haven't been quilting in awhile, check, when you change thread, check it. I find the thread is bad about popping out of a guide as well and I instantly get terrible tension when the thread is not guided properly. So always check the threading too. To check your tension, break thread and roll the machine to the edge of the quilt. Make sure to leave yourself 2-3 inches of space on the sides of the quilt with just batting exposed. Place a scrap of fabric there and do some quilting before getting started. Adjust in small increments, but also know that if you crank down on the tension too hard, the thread can get squished out of the discs. One last thing - always match your top and bobbin thread. That saves you a million years worth of headaches because the only tension issues that are really important are the big loops. Dots happen, no matter what machine, no matter what style of quilting, but if you match your thread colors, you can't see them!
I have a qnique 21 with a 10foot frame and I love it. I do have a problem with my take up ratchet though, it skips and slips out of the rail and doesn’t work. Just wondering if you had any suggestions or would know what I am doing wrong. Also in reference to the blue things you slipped over the rail how many are in the pack. I would love to use those instead of pinning. Is that possible? Thanks for the amazing video. I’ve had my machine fir about a year and this is the best video I’ve watch oh how to load the quilt.
I would check the screws around the ratchets and make sure everything is screwed in tight. If it keeps skipping out, try Amazing Tape. This is special tape that isn't sticky. It just sticks to itself and you could use it to wrap the ratchet once or twice to hold it firmly in place, then remove it very easily when you need to advance the quilt. On the Quilt Clips, I believe four are included in the pack. I'm using the blue 1 1/2 inch diameter clips. You can use these in place of pinning your quilt top to the bottom leader. Thank you so much for your kind compliment! I really enjoyed making this video!
Great tutorial thank you! I’m just now transitioning to using my long arm. When using my domestic machine I would quilt; then cut off the batting and leave an inch of backing around the edge and fold that over to use it as the binding (I call it cheater binding). If I want to continue using that method for binding, would I baste the batting and top on to the backing rather than using the straight stitch as you did? So that I can remove the basting stitch once I’m done quilting, and then be able to cut away the excess batting but leave enough of the backing to fold over for batting? Thank you in advance for your help!
Thank you. this was very helpful. May I ask what you have in the white cabinet behind you? I am in process of setting up sewing room and need ideas. Again, thanks.
I believe that cabinet was from Michaels a long time ago. They have unfortunately been discontinued. We have quite a lot of sewing room furniture available here - leahday.com/collections/sewing-tables I now store almost EVERYTHING for my frames, multiple sewing machines, and thread in one Dingo cabinet. IKEA is also a great place to go, but unfortunately most of the drawers do not open fully. It drives me nuts to lose the last 7 inches of a drawer!
Leah when using the clips to float your fabric, what do you do when you get to the last section of the quilt when it isn’t attached to anything? Thanks! Great videos🤗
It depends on the design Shelley - sometimes I will baste that lower edge of the quilt onto the batting and backing. Sometimes I'll pin it, and sometimes I will just stitch the design and let the fabric do whatever. It just depends! I'll try to shoot a video on this soon...
Thanks for the tutorial. How do you attach the quilt when floating when you reach the bottom of the quilt? The backing is taut and the batting lays fine, but I feel the quilt top itself is not well held once you move the bottom border under the needle.
Here's a video that helps explain that step - freemotionproject.com/2018/11/quilting-to-the-edge-of-your-longarm.html My methods have changed over the years so now I baste a quilt fully as I load it on the frame and the bottom edge is already secured to the batting and back before I reach that section.
Unfortunately I don't have a Q-Zone frame right now, but I'm thinking about getting one to share tutorials on. That's something that would interest you?
@@LeahDay, I love your videos! Is the a video out that shows how to load the fabric onto the Q-zone hoop frame? Maybe you could ask Grace Co to make one of you can't do it. I got my frame after Christmas and still haven't used it. The straps on the back rails get in the way of the 15R machine as it moves across. I haven't found a video to explain how to use the back tail and straps. Thanks for your help. Linda
Hi Leah, I live in the UK and last year bought myself the same machine as you, but as you say they have renamed it. I haven't used it for a while, work has got in the way, but I cannot for the life of me remember if there is an automatic thread cutter? I have looked all through my manual and cannot see if there is one, it is probably staring at me in the face, any help would be most welcome. Love your tutorials. Teri
I’m excited to get started on my long arm! What size is the frame you have? I’ve never quilter before! I have a feeling I’ll be watching many of your videos! Lol -Rachelle Collier - Roberts
Love your tutorials. Hubby watches too! We have a question about the backing. Do you square it, or straighten it? We did some Minky backing last night and pinned the top and then the bottom and rolled it up but at the top we had sag on one side so we repainted the top. Any tips?
Leah, I have that same set up and read somewhere to baste down the sides and then a one inch baste across the belly bar each time you roll before quilting (this would be manually done on our machine by single stitch and then move an inch across) over the whole quilt before starting. This was to make sure the quilt was square all the way down and quilt top didn’t run off the back. Then re-roll and start quilting removing the belly bar baste as you go. My question is, have you had a problem with getting to the end and not lining up? What’s your opinion on this?
Hmm... Yes, I think for a super important show quilt I might do this, but for most quilts I make for myself, I don't do that. I load the machine as you see here and begin quilting from the top (or side as this quilt was loaded sideways to maximize space). If I did do that extra basting, I'd change to water soluble thread so I wouldn't have to worry about picking it out. But even still, I've noticed a few times where quilting along the sides can cause pleats even on the longarm as the center of the quilt is secured and quilted outward.
Where do you instal the clamps on the frame . I’ve set everything up and put a practice cloth on I just can’t seem to find the location on the frame to attach the cord of the clamps to the frame. Thanks your videos are awesome Darlene
Do you have a Continuum frame or a Q-Zone Hoop Frame? If it's the Continuum there are tear drop shaped slots punched in the black plastic on both sides of the frame. Slip the cord through and press down to lock the cord in place. For the Q-Zone, it's a bit more complicated. Check your manual for the Q-Zone as there is a very clear diagram using the side clamps to install them.
I have a Baby Lock Jazz II and just got the Grace Queen Pro frame. What size Velcro do you use to attach leader cloth to the bar. My leader cloth has the “stuffed” edge. Should I unstuff it before attaching Velcro to the 4 sided bar? Can I use the red rods with this set up? Look forward to hearing from you.
Unfortunately this is the wrong leader cloth for this frame. You should use the leader cloth with velcro and then yes, you can use the Red Snappers with this frame. The correct leader cloth can be found here - leahday.com/products/continuum-frame-leader-cloth
I noticed that you didn't install any side tension clips to your quilt after fully loaded. Do you find that you don't need this step due to the way your quilt is sandwiched so straight and the up and down tension is so even?
I just bought a Q'nique 21 and I know these are the same frame. This may be a silly question but When you advance the quilt do you have to raise the back bar that's in the throat of the machine as you gather more fabric back there to make room as you advance?
Yes, if you don't have the additional top rail (it's something you can add to the Continuum Frame later, and we have a new moving rail too!), you will need to stop and adjust the back rail as the quilt rolls up. Otherwise it will become too thick and the machine will get hung up on it as you try to move it.
I am trying to save up for a longarm but there are so many out there. What do you like about the q'nique? How large of a quilt are you able to quilt on it? Is it loud?
We have three different sizes of Qnique longarms now - a Qnique 15 is our smallest model and you can quilt any sized quilt with this longarm. The real key is the frame you use and we have two different styles of frames now to work with. I would advise watching more videos here to see how these work and how much space they take up - leahday.com/blogs/machinequilting/frame-quilting-friday-machine-quilting-fun-on-a-longarm
Hi Leah, I just purchased a longarm machine and quite new at using it. I did purchase several light colors of longarm cones, but I’m finding that I don’t have the colors needed to quilt all of the 12 quilt tops that I have waiting to be quilted. My question is would it be alright if I use 40 wt Aurifil thread instead of the Signature cone one the machine?
Thank you for the great tutorial. I have been watching a lot of your videos. What is the basket that holding your supplies in your machine? I waiting for my machine to arrive.
So I followed your video here...but i didn’t exactly center the front rail...I let it hang to see where it would fall nice then pinned. When putting the backing on the front or is the back rail???? The one furtherest from the table and tensioned it up, I put soup cans in the middle to keep tension while I was rolling it up...it worked pretty good....do you think that is ok?
I have a Q21 and Continuum II frame. Regarding the tension for the quilt backing, how tight is too tight? I am not having thread breaks, however, my pantos seem to go downhill, left to right. My back and top are square. When I am ready to advance, I have enough tension that when I turn the knob on the front bar (not the take up bar) that the tension release is immediate and the quilted portion "sags". It does not seem like the front bar is pushed in from the tension. My past quilting machine was a 1943 Singer industrial machine that had been converted into a quilting machine. I really had to have a significant amount of tension when quilting on this machine. I have not been putting that amount of tension on the Continuum frame. Thoughts?
That doesn't sound like a backing tension issue - that sounds like you're not rolling the quilt up on the back rail evenly. As you roll up, you need to roll / smooth out the quilt with your hands evenly along the rail. That way the quilt stays even across the length. It sounds like you are smoothing out to the left but not the right which is causing the design to veer. Try to align a seamline on your quilt with the back rail so you can see if that seam is staying straight to the back rail. It does sound like you're getting the quilt slightly too tight. It needs to be bouncy with some spring, but not so tight the quilt layers are being distorted.
Very well explained…..I am 84 years old and still quilting, but I am used to quilting on my sewing machine. This is new to me. I have the Pro-Stitcher, so I am learning.
Such a joy to watch. You get right to what you are teaching without a whole bunch of chatter about other things. I just found out we have a longarm machine at our senior center and can't wait to start using it. I just wanted to get a head start before I do a queen size crumb quilt I just finished. Thanks so much!
Thank you so much Leah! This was the most informative video on how to load a quilt on a long arm. I really appreciate how well you explained everything. This a daunting task for those of us who are just learning how to do this. I now understand how to do it correctly. Thanks again.
My methods have changed over the years and I now load a little differently. You can find my updated tutorial here - leahday.com/blogs/machinequilting/continuum-loading
I was just gifted a Husqvarna quilt Master sewing machine and an inspira quilt frame. I cannot even believe how lucky I am! I've been watching your videos since your Janome hd1000 days. Now I can follow along with the quilt frame videos. So excited!
Wonderful! So happy to have you along for frame quilting now too!
Wow - I'm impressed. I have an "old" longarm machine and have been wanting to get started on experimenting with the longarm quilting process but have never really understood how to load the quilt onto the machine. Several people have shown me on my actual machine but it still didn't "register" with me. Your video is wonderful! I appreciate how real you are and how you explain every little detail. I am finally confident that I can do this and am most anxious to get started! Thank you very much!!!
I watch your video every time I load my Longarm. I haven’t quilted for two years now and just do not remember the proper way. I really enjoy all your videos. You have taught me a lot. Thanks. Tina Spano, New Jersey ( a few miles outside of Atlantic City
This is the best video tutorial that I’ve seen on loading the quilt. I have been afraid to try my long arm, but now I can!
Yay! I'm so happy to hear this!
Took my first quilt to the long arm artist 3/28/24. I entered a new ‘world’. Thank you for the excellent tutorial and I’m a Day too! Fun to find another Day. I live in Washington state so my Days came from Missouri/Alabama in 1888. 🦅🇺🇸🦅
Wonderful! My husbands family were military so with all the moving unfortunately we don’t know where our Days came from. I’m planning to play with ancestry.com soon to see what I can learn! Nice to meet another Day!
Thanks for showing your learning process on your Moxie. I also appreciate you discussing some of the challenges you ran into.
Thankyou Leah. My Hubby brought me a quilting frame and we set it up Yesterday. Very first time using it, so I don't have a clue what I'm doing. Your directions are clear and easy to follow, found you yesterday so can't wait to delve into your channel! Thanks. 🇦🇺
You are so welcome!
I have had my Q15R on continuum now for 6 months and avoided it like the plague because of Loading this thing never went well. Until I saw this video!! Thanks so much for your tutorial and your sense of humor :)
Wonderful! I'm so happy to hear this!
I use quilting safety pins - no more sticks. Thank you for this video- I am a new long-arm owner and this is such a help.
Great suggestion Rosemary! I'll try that!
Leah, I love your videos. You explain things very well, and you're really funny! Such a joy to watch, every single time!! Hugs!!! ♥️
Thank you Sheryl!
Leah Day has the most informative videos; excellent instructor! This is my first time loading a quilt on a frame and I could not be more pleased that I found your videos!!! Blessings!
Aw! Thank you so much!
I love this! Getting new machine next week and I have never used long arm before. So excited!! Thanks!
You're so welcome!
You are a wonderful instructor. You teach methods, ideas and tips that none other instructor has mentioned or hadn't thought of. Thanks for sharing. I have been following you for a very, very long time and have learned much from you.
Thank you so much Emma! You seriously made my day!
A long arm is on my Some day wish list. I am saving my pennies. I rented time on one for a project and it was so satisfying.
Wonderful Kati! We just recently cashed in our change jar and it was shocking how much $$$ was inside. So yep, that can definitely work so long as you're saving lots of quarters along with the pennies!
Kati- You don’t need to save to buy new. People upgrade or move all the time and sell perfectly fine used machines. I got my Grace frame and machine for $1,200 (great Bargain!) from someone moving across the country who did not want to move it with her. Just be patient and know that soon you will find a seller at a great price and jump on it. Guilds are the best places to hear about a sale. Good luck!
My son and I watched this together. This was so fun! James did a GREAT job! My son, Elliot loved seeing someone his age jump on the machine too! Hi from Elliot!
Aw! That's great Barbara! Hi Elliot - I hope you have fun sewing or quilting!
This is a great information video. We moved our long arm machine yesterday. I thought I made photos and stickers for everything, but I totally forgot about the leaders. Thanks to this video, I can correct and also improve what we have going on our long arm. Thank you Leah.
Thank you Linda! I'm so happy you found this helpful!
Such a great teacher and personality
Your instructions and explanation is so helpful. Tmrw I will put it to the test. Who knew the leader clothed was so important. Hahaha.
I was given a quilting frame without the leaders so watched your video about putting them on and now this one to show me how to load the quilt. Thank you so much. I have watched several and I like yours the best. You make it seem easier with out a lot of complications.
I realize this is an old video, but you did such a good job explaining the steps. Thank you.
You are very welcome! My methods for loading have changed a bit as I've gained more experience. You can find an updated tutorial here - leahday.com/blogs/machinequilting/continuum-loading
I just began considering the purchase of a longarm quilter when I ran across your videos! your videos make it seem so doable for me at 71 yrs of age. I will try to contact you about a purchase !
That's great Theresa! You can find a few holiday deals here: leahday.com/products/grace-q-zone-hoop-frame
I was watching your videos and listened to your suggestion to finance the midarm machine. I called Sewingmachinesplus.com and purchased a midarm sit down machine. I was surprised at the space it took up and shocked when the manufacturer (HandiQuilter) brochure showed a six foot frame that took up basically the same amount of space and there was also a 16” longarm machine to use with the frame. Luckily, Sewingmachinesplus had a 90 day trial so I was able to send the sit down machine back (had to keep the table) and I now have a long arm machine like yours. I was really surprised when you reported a month after I switched to the long arm that you had already bought a longarm too. It would probably have saved me time and money.
I'm glad you were able to send it back! They do take up a lot of room and sometimes that's hard to visualize until you get it in your space. We do have a new 4 1/2 foot hoop frame which takes up a lot less space, but it works differently for loading your quilt. The key is just trying out things until you find what works best for you!
Thank you so much for you instruction...new long arm...quilt on...I can do this !!!
Yes! You can do it!
Leah I just love all of your videos. I have learned so much. What I love is how you show us how to do it but also the whys. Thank you so much. Gg from Colorado
I have found that if I don't explain WHY in the video, I'll end up explaining it multiple times in the comments! LOL!
Lol. I am now getting ready to watch some more of your videos
I have recently bought a long arm with a frame that has 4 rails...I am hoping to find a video of you with this type of frame...you have taught me lots over the years thank you.
That sounds like you're using a frame with an Idler Rail. Here's the loading video you will need - leahday.com/blogs/machinequilting/continuum-loading
Great video and very well done! Super easy to follow and great demonstration. Thank you!
Thank you. Great attention to detail made this the greatest learning video
Off topic, but I see you have the same media cabinet that I do. Best thread storage ever! I thought I was the only one who had thought of that! LOL.
LOL! Scrapbooking drawers from Michaels - yes, indeed!
Thanks so much, you have helped me, Just got a 15pro and I am having a hard time starting off, I have no experience...wish me luck
This has been great, I have been thinking of buying an 8 foot frame for my simply 16 as I am getting frustrated with the little foot frame which still requires quilts to be basted, I love my longarm because as you say you can get the quilts done a-lot quicker. Thanks for the video.
I think that's a good move Laurelle. I've been looking at the hoop style frames and while I'm curious, and they certainly are smaller and cheaper than other frames, I think the best method is on a traditional frame like this with 2-3 bars to roll the quilt up this way so there's no basting required.
You have made learning the quilting process pleasurable. Thank you. I would love to see more longarm videos. I purchased a longarm but have received it yet.
You can find all of my longarm quilting videos linked here - leahday.com/blogs/machinequilting/frame-quilting-friday-machine-quilting-fun-on-a-longarm
@@LeahDay Thanks
Thank you so much for this video. I have just bought a grace frame and watching videos to set up. Yours has been the most helpful. I am curious about the plates that you can use as templates.
I have not used my Q’unique 14 a lot but am thrilled to see your video. I have the lovely blue snaps but not the channel lock ..... need that.
Thank you Karen! Please use your machine! I share new videos every Friday so you can follow along and learn with me!
Thank you so much! Not sure how I would quilt without your help!
Thank you so much for making these wonderful videos. I've watched tons of videos on loading and this is by far the best.
Awesome! I'm delighted to hear this!
You are awesome, a wonderful teacher! Thanks.
Thank you very much...you nice voice , details , tips is Great! I have a Pfaff longarm at home have not touched it in a years...but floating the batting and not using the side clips I believe will help. Bless you!
Thank you Cindy! I hope that helps!
Thank you so much for this video, we have similar products and I am learning on my own. Much appreciated.
Thank you Cynthia! I'm so glad you enjoyed this video!
Thank you, I have always pinned . I needed instructions on floating . I wanted to try to float, needed the push!, you are very helpful.
Thank you Sylvia!
Thank you so much Leah for this video. It is the absolute best that I have found on loading.!
Thank you Janet! I'm so happy you found this helpful!
Excellent instructions.
Glad it was helpful!
I made the the blue star quilt that you have on the back wall 2 yrs ago my UFO.....lol and am finally putting the binding on it. I'm wanting to know the name of the quilt for my quilt label. My was done in Patriotic fabric for a raffle for our local Community Club. Thank you in advance for your help and all you do to make quilting easier.
That's wonderful Carolyn! That's the Mega Star Quilt and I'm so happy you're using it for your local charity!
Leah could you in the future show a video on how to use panto on our Qniques. Thank you and loving your podcasts😊
Yes, most definitely! I'm working on a pantograph collection and will be doing videos on them just as soon as it's done!
Excellent instructions! Thank you.
Thanks Leah! This video has helped me a lot, I picked up a few tips from it.
Awesome Pat! I'm so happy to hear that!
Thank you! Very helpful and complete!
Helpful information. I have a quilt frame and I think it is the same one you have. I have a Bernita 830 to use with it but I am scared to use it. Pathetic I know. Your video helped me get some courage :)
That's great Julie! Remember, this is just fabric and thread and nothing to be afraid of!
Cool 😎 I hope to get a longarm one day 😬 Thanks for sharing!
Hi Leah.I love your very detailed videos.Can you explain a little about how the machine is locked into place to stitch a straight line.I didn’t realize the machine could do that.Thank you.
I have a video on using channel locks specifically right here: leahday.com/blogs/machinequilting/straight-line-quilting-on-a-longarm
Yes would be very interested in a Q zone video on loading a quilt! Been unable to locate a video that was as informative as your videos.
I'm working on that Debra! I hope to have Q-zone soon to play with!
I also have been looking for help on loading my quilt onto the Q-zone hoop frame. The straps get in the way of moving my 15R across the frame. I must not be losing the fabric correctly. Any suggestions?
Hi Leah, I am looking into purchasing a Grace Q'nique15R and I thought that I would ask your expertise on the Q'nique longarm, what are your pros and cons on your machine? Do you ever have any problems with thread tension? I sure would appreciate any input that you might have on this. I am so confused on this, Leah you are my mentor when it comes to quilting videos and the how to knowledge you give to all us quilters. Much appreciative, Susan
Great questions Susan! Three pros and things I love about the machine - it's not nearly as expensive as other machine / frame combos, it's very sturdy, and the machine has two sets of feet now that really expand what you can do with it.
And three cons - it is only 15 inches which can seem pretty small on a big quilt. The light is a big bright and I've covered it a bit so it isn't quite so glaring (kind of the opposite problem you usually have). One tiny little issue I have is the thread popping out of one guide, but that might be a weird nuance of my machine and now that I'm aware of it, I'm in the habit of checking it.
These are little things and this is why I quilt on this machine and share videos on it - I'm SUPER happy with it! I had another longarm and sold it because I wasn't comfortable shooting videos on it that would sell that machine.
I know tension is a concern for most quilters looking to switch to a longarm and it's certainly an adjustment, but I've never struggled with it. Here's a video on how I do a tension test: leahday.com/blogs/machinequilting/troubleshoot-tension-on-a-longarm
@@LeahDay Thank you Leah for your input on the Grace Q'nique. I may go ahead and purchase mine this week-end. I am certain as I too cannot really afford the more expensive Quilting machine. this will be my first Longarm. Have a great week-end. I enjoy watching your videos and all your projects and inspiration.
@@susanhardy8309
Good luck with your decision, and I wish you many, many hours of quilting happiness!! Getting a new longarm is SO exciting!! :)
Great instructions!! I understand better now!!
Very informative. Thanks for a great video 😊
Your method is better than the one which came with the frame. Thanks.
I'm so glad you found this helpful!
Also I noticed you have a little basket on your longarm....can you show up close. I am new to my longarm and I have the same one and I love idea of you having your notions on your qnique . More tutorials on this machine would be awesome . Thank you very much.
I shared a little video on that here: ruclips.net/video/g9uVurvseaM/видео.html
I have more videos coming every Friday!
Hi Leah first thank you for all the helpful videos
I was wondering if you could do a video about cleaning and oiling the Qnique 15 or the 14 + that you have if you already have something similar could you point me in the right direction thank you again and have a wonderful new year weekend
That is a beautiful crazy colored backing...and we are lookin at the wrong side correct
That's Island Batik Fabric - it's gorgeous!
I’m loving this video, I’m just wondering why you’re not using safety pins instead of pins?
Safety pins would be very difficult to close while on the frame. Straight pins are more common to use in this situation and the best choice.
Great video, Leah--very helpful!
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you SO MUCH!!
Hey-
Thank you for this tutorial, very well paced and easy to follow.
After reading through the comments I see you do not baste the sides. Is that correct?
You use 15 SPI for your basting. Do you find that to keep the quilt squared better?
How do you deal with fullness on the borders?
Last question- do you find that your quilt can develop a frown at the bottom from not basting the sides?
Thanks so much:)
Nope, I don't tend to baste the sides, though I do use side clamps more often now. I like for the fabric to be able to escape just in case my fluffy batting starts to form pleats.
Just ordered my grace clips. So excited. Me and pins don’t go good together lolol
Awesome tutorial
Hi Leah, I got my new Grace Qnique15R and 8 ft frame in your demo. I learned to float and or to baste the entire 3 layers of the quilt to the two rollers. I was wondering why don't you use the quilt top rail? Did you have any trouble advancing the quilt with it attached? This frame locks that lower roller in so how do you see if the batting and backing has advanced smoothly? I love the fact that the frame can be made taller as I am quite tall. The machine is still in the box. Hopefully tomorrow I can get it set up and start to quilt. I love how the package has everything I need to set up and start to sew. Thank you for offering such a sweet deal. My Friend Sue C also ordered the same system this week from you after she saw my post on my fb page.
Hi Denise! I haven't invested in the upper rail because with the 15 inch longarm, this will actually limit the amount of space you have to quilt in. The uppermost rail will hit the back boxy thing (right behind the monitor) and reduce the amount of space you have to quilt in. Thank you so much for sharing about your frame! I look forward to helping you and Sue with your new machines!
Hi Leah,Thanks for the reply. I guess I explained it wrong. I was meaning the 3rd rail below the backing rail in the front of the frame. The directions explain to attach your quilt top to it and roll it up. then after you add your batting to pick up the quilt top edge & bring it up to the stitched line on the batting and back. I tried this and it all bunched up, so I am floating the top for now.
Also I am not sure if I put the leaders on correctly. Should they hang behind the rails or hang in front of the rails? Possible if I applied the leaders wrong that could have caused the top and batting to get bunched up?
I love the regulated stitch programs. I only had constant speed on the LA I was borrowing. The rulers are a fun addition to my collection. The bobbin winder is super cool. I'm really a happy camper! Sue's already set up and practicing today!
Thanks Leah
Hi! Very good demonstration and this machine and frame doesn’t look as gigantic as others. I have very limited space. Thank you for sharing.
Nellie Flanders HandiQuilter sells a Simply Sixteen midarm (16” throat) with several frame options. I have a Little Foot Frame, which is like a six foot wide embroidery hoop. I’ve quilted a king size quilt on it using large tool holder magnets to keep the quilt in place while quilting. This is the video I was thinking of: ruclips.net/video/vhcQbwIxalE/видео.html
Cindy Griffis I have a Husqvarna free motion sit down quilting set up and do not like it, the machine is ok though. Was wondering if this machine would work with the frame Leah is using, think she said 8 ft
Nellie Flanders I’m not sure about that. The HandiQuilter sit down machine (Sweet Sixteen) has the capability of being turned into a longarm. The reason I originally bought it was because I wanted to switch to a longarm someday (I thought they were prohibitably expensive and large. (The one I’d seen at the dealer where I bought my domestic machine was $35,000. My Sewingmachinesplus salesperson said HandiQuilter was the only maker that had the option to change. Since I bought my machine I have seen setups where even domestic machines are put on a carriage with handlebars so they can be moved around on a table. I’d check RUclips and google to see if that would work for you. The difference between a sit down and longarm is the way the machine moves over the fabric/table. My machine communicates electronically with the carriage to “track” the movements. This is a link to a video about a carrier for a regular machine on a large frame: ruclips.net/video/vhcQbwIxalE/видео.html
Yep, this is set up as an 8 foot frame, and you can add a 2 foot addition if you get more space later. We also have a new 4 1/2 foot wide Q-Zone frame which works differently, but it takes up a lot less space.
Didn't know about the quilt clips and have been pinning the top to the 3rd bottom most leader. Will definitely get some. I have the same Qnique machine and long arm frame as you but my biggest issue has been tension problems with the machine. Have you had this issue? I've even replaced the manual tension assembly. Thoughts.
Tension on a longarm is very different from tension on a home machine. Little things can throw the machine off and the most important tip is to check your stitch quality OFTEN. So when you change bobbins, check, when you haven't been quilting in awhile, check, when you change thread, check it.
I find the thread is bad about popping out of a guide as well and I instantly get terrible tension when the thread is not guided properly. So always check the threading too.
To check your tension, break thread and roll the machine to the edge of the quilt. Make sure to leave yourself 2-3 inches of space on the sides of the quilt with just batting exposed. Place a scrap of fabric there and do some quilting before getting started. Adjust in small increments, but also know that if you crank down on the tension too hard, the thread can get squished out of the discs.
One last thing - always match your top and bobbin thread. That saves you a million years worth of headaches because the only tension issues that are really important are the big loops. Dots happen, no matter what machine, no matter what style of quilting, but if you match your thread colors, you can't see them!
I have a qnique 21 with a 10foot frame and I love it. I do have a problem with my take up ratchet though, it skips and slips out of the rail and doesn’t work. Just wondering if you had any suggestions or would know what I am doing wrong. Also in reference to the blue things you slipped over the rail how many are in the pack. I would love to use those instead of pinning. Is that possible? Thanks for the amazing video. I’ve had my machine fir about a year and this is the best video I’ve watch oh how to load the quilt.
I would check the screws around the ratchets and make sure everything is screwed in tight. If it keeps skipping out, try Amazing Tape. This is special tape that isn't sticky. It just sticks to itself and you could use it to wrap the ratchet once or twice to hold it firmly in place, then remove it very easily when you need to advance the quilt.
On the Quilt Clips, I believe four are included in the pack. I'm using the blue 1 1/2 inch diameter clips. You can use these in place of pinning your quilt top to the bottom leader. Thank you so much for your kind compliment! I really enjoyed making this video!
Great tutorial thank you! I’m just now transitioning to using my long arm. When using my domestic machine I would quilt; then cut off the batting and leave an inch of backing around the edge and fold that over to use it as the binding (I call it cheater binding). If I want to continue using that method for binding, would I baste the batting and top on to the backing rather than using the straight stitch as you did? So that I can remove the basting stitch once I’m done quilting, and then be able to cut away the excess batting but leave enough of the backing to fold over for batting? Thank you in advance for your help!
Yes, use a larger basting stitch for the edges in your case. Have fun!
That's exactly how I do it so thank you for asking this question. I like to keep the process as simple as possible.
@@LeahDay so are you saying to use the above method we would baste the sides once we have it loaded on the long arm?
Thank you. this was very helpful. May I ask what you have in the white cabinet behind you? I am in process of setting up sewing room and need ideas. Again, thanks.
I believe that cabinet was from Michaels a long time ago. They have unfortunately been discontinued. We have quite a lot of sewing room furniture available here - leahday.com/collections/sewing-tables I now store almost EVERYTHING for my frames, multiple sewing machines, and thread in one Dingo cabinet.
IKEA is also a great place to go, but unfortunately most of the drawers do not open fully. It drives me nuts to lose the last 7 inches of a drawer!
Leah when using the clips to float your fabric, what do you do when you get to the last section of the quilt when it isn’t attached to anything? Thanks! Great videos🤗
It depends on the design Shelley - sometimes I will baste that lower edge of the quilt onto the batting and backing. Sometimes I'll pin it, and sometimes I will just stitch the design and let the fabric do whatever. It just depends! I'll try to shoot a video on this soon...
Thanks for the tutorial. How do you attach the quilt when floating when you reach the bottom of the quilt? The backing is taut and the batting lays fine, but I feel the quilt top itself is not well held once you move the bottom border under the needle.
Here's a video that helps explain that step - freemotionproject.com/2018/11/quilting-to-the-edge-of-your-longarm.html My methods have changed over the years so now I baste a quilt fully as I load it on the frame and the bottom edge is already secured to the batting and back before I reach that section.
I use floral pins. They are long and strong.
Great video
Do you have a video on the Grace Q zone frame? I’m just a bigginer but love the quilting process. Your videos are amazing. Thank you
Unfortunately I don't have a Q-Zone frame right now, but I'm thinking about getting one to share tutorials on. That's something that would interest you?
@@LeahDay, I love your videos! Is the a video out that shows how to load the fabric onto the Q-zone hoop frame? Maybe you could ask Grace Co to make one of you can't do it. I got my frame after Christmas and still haven't used it. The straps on the back rails get in the way of the 15R machine as it moves across. I haven't found a video to explain how to use the back tail and straps. Thanks for your help.
Linda
Hi Leah,
I live in the UK and last year bought myself the same machine as you, but as you say they have renamed it. I haven't used it for a while, work has got in the way, but I cannot for the life of me remember if there is an automatic thread cutter? I have looked all through my manual and cannot see if there is one, it is probably staring at me in the face, any help would be most welcome. Love your tutorials. Teri
No, there is no thread cutters on any Qnique longarm machine.
Great explaining. Good info. Thank you
Thank you Theresa!
I’m excited to get started on my long arm! What size is the frame you have? I’ve never quilter before! I have a feeling I’ll be watching many of your videos! Lol -Rachelle Collier - Roberts
Love your tutorials. Hubby watches too! We have a question about the backing. Do you square it, or straighten it? We did some Minky backing last night and pinned the top and then the bottom and rolled it up but at the top we had sag on one side so we repainted the top. Any tips?
Leah, I have that same set up and read somewhere to baste down the sides and then a one inch baste across the belly bar each time you roll before quilting (this would be manually done on our machine by single stitch and then move an inch across) over the whole quilt before starting. This was to make sure the quilt was square all the way down and quilt top didn’t run off the back. Then re-roll and start quilting removing the belly bar baste as you go. My question is, have you had a problem with getting to the end and not lining up? What’s your opinion on this?
Hmm... Yes, I think for a super important show quilt I might do this, but for most quilts I make for myself, I don't do that. I load the machine as you see here and begin quilting from the top (or side as this quilt was loaded sideways to maximize space).
If I did do that extra basting, I'd change to water soluble thread so I wouldn't have to worry about picking it out. But even still, I've noticed a few times where quilting along the sides can cause pleats even on the longarm as the center of the quilt is secured and quilted outward.
Where do you instal the clamps on the frame . I’ve set everything up and put a practice cloth on I just can’t seem to find the location on the frame to attach the cord of the clamps to the frame. Thanks your videos are awesome Darlene
Do you have a Continuum frame or a Q-Zone Hoop Frame? If it's the Continuum there are tear drop shaped slots punched in the black plastic on both sides of the frame. Slip the cord through and press down to lock the cord in place.
For the Q-Zone, it's a bit more complicated. Check your manual for the Q-Zone as there is a very clear diagram using the side clamps to install them.
This was so helpful. Thank you!
I'm so happy this was helpful for you Michele!
Thank you!
I have a Baby Lock Jazz II and just got the Grace Queen Pro frame. What size Velcro do you use to attach leader cloth to the bar. My leader cloth has the “stuffed” edge. Should I unstuff it before attaching Velcro to the 4 sided bar? Can I use the red rods with this set up? Look forward to hearing from you.
Unfortunately this is the wrong leader cloth for this frame. You should use the leader cloth with velcro and then yes, you can use the Red Snappers with this frame. The correct leader cloth can be found here - leahday.com/products/continuum-frame-leader-cloth
Awesome!
Do you ever use the batting bar when you set up a new quilt?
I noticed that you didn't install any side tension clips to your quilt after fully loaded. Do you find that you don't need this step due to the way your quilt is sandwiched so straight and the up and down tension is so even?
So helpful!
Thank you for watching!
I just bought a Q'nique 21 and I know these are the same frame. This may be a silly question but When you advance the quilt do you have to raise the back bar that's in the throat of the machine as you gather more fabric back there to make room as you advance?
Yes, if you don't have the additional top rail (it's something you can add to the Continuum Frame later, and we have a new moving rail too!), you will need to stop and adjust the back rail as the quilt rolls up. Otherwise it will become too thick and the machine will get hung up on it as you try to move it.
I am trying to save up for a longarm but there are so many out there. What do you like about the q'nique? How large of a quilt are you able to quilt on it? Is it loud?
We have three different sizes of Qnique longarms now - a Qnique 15 is our smallest model and you can quilt any sized quilt with this longarm. The real key is the frame you use and we have two different styles of frames now to work with. I would advise watching more videos here to see how these work and how much space they take up - leahday.com/blogs/machinequilting/frame-quilting-friday-machine-quilting-fun-on-a-longarm
Hi Leah, I just purchased a longarm machine and quite new at using it. I did purchase several light colors of longarm cones, but I’m finding that I don’t have the colors needed to quilt all of the 12 quilt tops that I have waiting to be quilted. My question is would it be alright if I use 40 wt Aurifil thread instead of the Signature cone one the machine?
Thank you for the great tutorial. I have been watching a lot of your videos. What is the basket that holding your supplies in your machine? I waiting for my machine to arrive.
Thank you for such a great tutorial. Where did you get the channel lock for your Qnique?
The channel locks come standard with the Grace Continuum Frame. If you don't have them, check with your dealer to see if you can order a set.
So I followed your video here...but i didn’t exactly center the front rail...I let it hang to see where it would fall nice then pinned. When putting the backing on the front or is the back rail???? The one furtherest from the table and tensioned it up, I put soup cans in the middle to keep tension while I was rolling it up...it worked pretty good....do you think that is ok?
I have a Q21 and Continuum II frame. Regarding the tension for the quilt backing, how tight is too tight? I am not having thread breaks, however, my pantos seem to go downhill, left to right. My back and top are square. When I am ready to advance, I have enough tension that when I turn the knob on the front bar (not the take up bar) that the tension release is immediate and the quilted portion "sags". It does not seem like the front bar is pushed in from the tension.
My past quilting machine was a 1943 Singer industrial machine that had been converted into a quilting machine. I really had to have a significant amount of tension when quilting on this machine. I have not been putting that amount of tension on the Continuum frame.
Thoughts?
That doesn't sound like a backing tension issue - that sounds like you're not rolling the quilt up on the back rail evenly. As you roll up, you need to roll / smooth out the quilt with your hands evenly along the rail. That way the quilt stays even across the length. It sounds like you are smoothing out to the left but not the right which is causing the design to veer. Try to align a seamline on your quilt with the back rail so you can see if that seam is staying straight to the back rail.
It does sound like you're getting the quilt slightly too tight. It needs to be bouncy with some spring, but not so tight the quilt layers are being distorted.
Great video!
I’m new to longarm quilting.
Do you baste down the sides as you advance the quilt?
I definitely do now. I also use the side bungee clamps as well. You need side tension to stop the quilt shrinking in at the middle.
To install the quilt info will be very helpful
Thank you Thomas!
Leah, I need those pins you use with the leaders when loading a quilt. Can you tell me where to purchase them?